Craving a plant-based dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and packed with protein? This Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is a game-changer! It’s the perfect balance of crunchy texture and creamy, nutty goodness — ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just curious to try, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile.
Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish at home!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Tofu Recipe
• Healthier Alternative: Baked, not fried — less oil, more nutrients!
• Packed with Protein: Tofu is a fantastic plant-based protein source.
• Irresistible Peanut Sauce: Creamy, savory, and slightly sweet.
• Easy to Customize: Add veggies, rice, or noodles to create a complete meal.
If you’re ready to elevate your tofu game, this recipe is for you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crispy Baked Tofu:
• 1 block of firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
For the Creamy Peanut Sauce:
• ¼ cup peanut butter (natural, unsweetened)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or lime juice)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2–3 tbsp warm water (to thin the sauce)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Press the Tofu
Press your tofu to remove excess moisture. You can use a tofu press or wrap the block in paper towels and place a heavy object on top. Let it press for at least 20-30 minutes.
2. Cube and Season
Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes. In a mixing bowl, toss the tofu with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle cornstarch over the tofu and toss again until evenly coated.
Tip: Cornstarch is the secret to getting that irresistible crispiness!
3. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tofu cubes on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce
While the tofu bakes, whisk together all the peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl. Adjust the water amount to achieve your desired consistency — thicker for dipping or thinner for drizzling.
5. Assemble and Serve
Once the tofu is crispy, toss it in the peanut sauce or serve the sauce on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts for extra flavor and texture.
Serving ideas: Pair with jasmine rice, stir-fried veggies, or rice noodles for a complete, nourishing meal.
Tips for the Best Crispy Tofu
• Use Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu: Silken or soft tofu won’t crisp up.
• Don’t Skip Pressing: Removing moisture is key to crispiness.
• Space Out the Cubes: Overcrowding the pan causes steaming instead of baking.
Health Benefits of Tofu and Peanut Sauce
• Tofu: High in plant-based protein, iron, and calcium.
• Peanut Butter: Full of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins.
• Ginger & Garlic: Known for anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
This dish isn’t just tasty — it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that supports a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
• Store: Keep leftover tofu in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Use an air fryer or oven to regain crispiness.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately.
This makes it perfect for weekly meal prep or quick, satisfying dinners!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe without soy?
Yes! Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
Q: Can I air-fry the tofu instead of baking?
Absolutely! Air-fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Q: Is there a nut-free alternative to peanut sauce?
Try using sunflower seed butter or tahini instead!
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Tofu Recipe
This Crispy Baked Tofu with Peanut Sauce is a must-try dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and endlessly customizable!
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Share your creations on social media and tag me — I’d love to see them.